When it comes to learning a new language, understanding family terms is essential. If you’re interested in learning how to say “cousin” in Bosnian, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll explore formal and informal ways to address cousins in Bosnian, with a focus on standard language usage. Let’s dive in!
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Formal Ways to Say Cousin in Bosnian
Formal language usage is typically the most appropriate in professional and formal settings. When referring to cousins formally in Bosnian, you can use the following terms:
1. Rodjak (singular) / Rodjaci (plural)
The term “rodjak” is widely used in Bosnian to refer to a cousin. It can be used both for male and female cousins. When referring to multiple cousins, you can use the plural form “rodjaci.” For example:
“Moj rodjak ima trideset godina.” (My cousin is thirty years old)
“Rodjaci mi dolaze u posjetu sljedeći tjedan.” (My cousins are coming to visit next week)
2. Brat od strica (for male cousins) / Sestra od strica (for female cousins)
In some cases, you may want to specify the gender of your cousin. In such scenarios, you can use the terms “brat od strica” for male cousins and “sestra od strica” for female cousins. Here are a couple of examples:
“Idem u kino s bratom od strica.” (I’m going to the movies with my male cousin)
“Sestra od strica mi je najbolja prijateljica.” (My female cousin is my best friend)
Informal Ways to Say Cousin in Bosnian
Informal language is commonly used within families, among close friends, or in casual conversations. When addressing cousins informally in Bosnian, the following terms are commonly used:
1. Bakćo (singular) / Bakća (singular feminine) / Braća/Braćo (plural)
The term “bakćo” is an affectionate way to refer to a male cousin, while “bakća” is used for a female cousin. When addressing multiple male cousins, “braća” can be used, or the familiar term “braćo” can be used in more casual settings. Examples include:
“Dođi na kafu, bakćo!” (Come for coffee, cousin!)
“Moja bakća ima dvije kćeri.” (My female cousin has two daughters)
“Braća su mi kao najbolji prijatelji.” (My male cousins are like best friends to me)
2. Brat (for male cousins) / Sestra (for female cousins)
In informal contexts, Bosnians often refer to their cousins by the terms “brat” (brother) for male cousins and “sestra” (sister) for female cousins. Here are a few examples:
“Dolazi mi brat na večeru.” (My male cousin is coming for dinner)
“Sestra i ja smo nerazdvojni.” (My female cousin and I are inseparable)
Regional Variations
Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country with diverse regions, each influenced by various dialects. While the above terms are used generally across the country, some regional variations may exist. Here are a few examples:
1. Zenica Region:
In the Zenica region, the term “rođak” is widely used instead of “rodjak.” So, you may hear phrases like:
“Rođak mi dolazi iz Zenice.” (My cousin is coming from Zenica)
2. Herzegovina Region:
In Herzegovina, it’s common to hear the term “bratko” for male cousins and “sestreno” for female cousins in certain communities.
“Idem u Mostar s bratkom.” (I’m going to Mostar with my male cousin)
“Sestreno, vidimo se uskoro!” (Cousin, see you soon!)
Conclusion
In Bosnian, addressing cousins can be done formally or informally, depending on the context. The formal terms include “rodjak” (singular)/”rodjaci” (plural) and “brat od strica” (for male cousins)/”sestra od strica” (for female cousins). Informally, you can use terms like “bakćo” (male cousin), “bakća” (female cousin), “braća” (multiple male cousins), “braćo” (casual term for male cousins), “brat” (male cousin), and “sestra” (female cousin). Regional variations may exist, such as the use of “rođak” or “bratko” for cousins in specific regions.
Remember, speaking about family is a great way to connect with Bosnian speakers and show an interest in their culture. So, go ahead and use these phrases to impress your Bosnian cousins and build stronger relationships!
